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When is a Good Time to Travel to Peru?

When is a Good Time to Travel to Peru?

Peru is, without a doubt, one of the most diverse countries in South America and everyone’s favorite destination while traveling through the continent. For that reason, we know that you won’t like to miss the chance of visiting the highlights of this region. 

Here we have gathered some tips and information so you can organize your trip through this Andean gem according to the weather conditions.

Either you visit during the rainy or dry season, Peru will always provide a unique experience. Depending on the destinations you’d like to visit, the weather may vary, which is why we’ll give a complete overview through the different regions of the country and their climate conditions. 

So, if you were expecting a more concise response, it is actually more complicated than that. This South American gem is widely diverse and when it comes to traveling, it all goes down to the type of experience you’re looking for.

According to Peru’s geographic position, there are two marked seasons though these might affect the Andean region more. Keep reading and learn all the details about the weather in Peru and make the most of your adventure!

The Pacific Coast

Also known as the endless summerland, this region comprehends some of the most in-demand coastside destinations in Peru, such as Mancora, Trujillo, Lima, Paracas, and more. The Peruvian Coast is divided into three sections with two predominant climate conditions:

- Northern Coast: This one presents tropical-like weather with minor chances of rain throughout the year. The temperature increases from January to April, reaching up to 30°C. Small chances of rain take place during this time of the year with a precipitation between 100ml and 500ml.

- Central and Southern Coast: This particular area presents arid weather, meaning that the chances of rain are slim to none throughout the year. The Lima region is the exception since it presents a humidity of over 80% and only 1,284 sunshine hours annually.

The overall weather condition in this region is good, which basically means that you can choose any time of the year to visit the destinations within this region. However, Lima it’s nearly cloudy all year around, except during summertime that takes place between December and April.

If you want more information about the most in-demand attractions in Northern Peru, we encourage you to take a look at our Fantastic Peru package, where you’ll visit the best attractions near the pacific coast and the Peruvian Andes.

The Andean Highlands

The Peruvian Andes are recognized for their natural wonders, like the Huascaran National Park and historical attractions like Machu Picchu in Cusco, turning into the most visited destinations in Peru.

The rainy and dry seasons are well-marked in this region of the country though there is a slight variation in temperatures within the North and South part of the Andes. This is what you need to know about them: 

- Dry Season: Starts from May and finishes around October. It is considered the coldest time of the year since temperatures can go down to -4°C during the night. For most travellers, this is the best time to visit Machu Picchu, which is why it’s also the high tourist season in the country.

It is very unlikely to rain during this period though there are small chances of precipitation around the month of October, also known as ‘Shoulder Season.’

- Rainy Season: It takes place between January and April. This season is heavily marked in the Andean highlands so you will find significantly less travelers during this period. Heavy downpour of rain is expected during February and some trekking routes to Machu Picchu, like the Inca Trail, close in that month for safety issues and restoration.

Traveling during the rainy season has its benefits since you can find more affordable prices in accommodations, tours, and treks, as well as having the opportunity to experience the most in-demand attractions with less crowds, and most importantly, a vibrant green scenery.

If you wish to visit the Andean highlands without missing its best attractions, we have the best option for you! Check our Adventure in the Peruvian Andes package and get to know the greatest destinations of this region.

The Peruvian Jungle

The Amazon in Peru has predominant Rainy Tropical Weather, where the rainy season is the one who prevails the most in this region. The Peruvian Jungle is divided into two sections, and the weather conditions may vary but the temperatures are almost the same throughout the year:

- High Jungle: This region comprehends cities like Jaén, Chachapoyas, Quillabamba, Aguas Calientes and more, where most of its climate condition is rainy and semi-warm since its location is near the Andean highlands. Rain is expected throughout the year, although it’s more predominant between October and April.

- Low Jungle: This part of the Amazon has distinct weather with warmer and rainy days. The low jungle region comprises famous cities like Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado. Although rain is expected throughout the year, it’s more predominant during October and April, being these the warmest and wettest months of the year.

In this case, we can say that the best time to visit the jungle is between June and September. Although there are still chances of rain during this period, the precipitation isn't as strong as it is for the rest of the year. If you wish to have an authentic experience through the jungle, check our Classic Peru with Amazon Experience package!

In conclusion…

If this is your first time in Peru, Machu Picchu and Cusco are surely the main attractions on your bucket list. So, if you travel between April and October, you might run up to more crowded tourist destinations but with sunny and bright days thoroughly.

If you’d like to avoid the crowds and find sort of cheaper fares in accommodations and tours, you might want to travel in October or April, which are basically the shoulder season in the Andean region. Keep in mind that rainfall is possible but not as strong as in the peak of the rainy season.

Yes, we know, it is a bit complicated trying to organize a trip abroad, especially if you come from the northern hemisphere since the weather conditions will be totally backwards for you.

Nonetheless, Peru is a diverse country and each of its regions will provide a unique experience regardless of the weather condition. Our main advice would be to pack accordingly and choose a date that actually suits your available time.

For some, travelling during the dry season could be the optimal option, for others, the rainy season might be so much better. We want you to travel in comfort, so if you haven’t planned anything yet and would like some help, contact our team now and they’ll guide you through the best things to do in Peru.

Likewise, if you’re looking to get inspired for your trip, here at Viagens Machu Picchu, we have prepared some Peru travel itineraries so you can have a glimpse at the different attractions in our country. Make sure to check them out while you’re here!